Santa Barbara, CA (May 19, 2026) – A hit-and-run crash with injuries was reported on Monday, May 18, on southbound US-101 just north of Hot Springs Road in Santa Barbara.
The incident was first reported at approximately 9:15 p.m., with an unknown lane blocked at the time of the initial call. Multiple emergency units responded to the scene. All lanes were reported back open by approximately 10:17 p.m.
The striking vehicle fled the scene. Details about the number of people hurt and the severity of their injuries have not been confirmed. The incident remains under active investigation, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they receive care.
Hit-and-Run Crashes on California Freeways: What People Should Know
Hit-and-run crashes on California freeways are a serious and ongoing problem, particularly on heavily traveled corridors like US-101 along the Santa Barbara coast. When a driver flees after a collision, it delays medical help and makes it significantly harder for investigators to piece together what happened. California law requires any driver involved in a crash causing injury or death to stop, render aid, and provide their information.
Freeway hit-and-run cases often rely on license plate reader data, surveillance footage from nearby cameras, and witness accounts to identify the fleeing vehicle. The Santa Barbara area has several traffic monitoring systems along US-101 that can help track vehicle movement after a crash. Penalties for hit-and-run involving injuries in California are serious, including potential felony charges and prison time.
